Patterson Towing Lot (near East St. Louis)

The Fire

Approximately 50 vehicles were on fire at the Patterson Towing LLC yard at ~2:40 p.m. on Saturday, April 11. The fire created a massive smoke plume visible across the Mississippi River in St. Louis.

The tow yard primarily contained junk vehicles awaiting scrapping.

13 fire departments responded, including:

• Midway Fire Department
• Camp Jackson, Cahokia Heights, East St. Louis, Prairie Du Pont, Church Road, Hollywood Heights, Millstadt, Columbia, O'Fallon, Madison, State Park, and Villa Hills

Crews faced significant challenges due to limited hydrant access in the area. Tanker trucks were used to shuttle water to a portable drop tank to maintain a steady water supply. A ladder truck was deployed to help contain the blaze.

Damage

Approximately 100 vehicles were reported damaged.

Cause

According to an employee at the tow yard: an electric car battery sparked the blaze. Heavy equipment operators were moving vehicles and struck the battery on a hybrid/electric vehicle, causing it to ignite. This is consistent with known thermal runaway risks in lithium-ion battery fires.

This fire is not arson and has no labor or wage connection.

Injuries

No injuries reported.